English-speaking countries and continents, but usually refer to one of the following activities or events: * Official or unofficial observances of religious, national, or cultural significance, often accompanied by celebrations or festivities * A general leave of absence from a regular occupation for rest or recreation * A specific trip or journey for the purposes of recreation or tourism People often take a vacation during specific holiday observances, or for specific festivals or celebrations. Vacation or holidays are often used spent with friends or family. A person may take a longer break from work, such as a sabbatical, gap year, or career break.